In our imperfect world, only the lucky few have access to wealth and cultural riches. There is a better way: it's called The Commons.

January 15, 2009

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In a perfect world, wealth–be it money, ideas or access to natural resources–belongs to all of us. But in our decidedly unjust and imperfect world, wealth is increasingly concentrated in the hands of a few. There is be a better way. The notion of The Commons–shared land, resources, or the knowledge passed down through generations–is a common-sense way to allocate our natural, cultural and intellectual riches.

In this innovative animation, filmmaker Laura Hanna, writer Gavin Browning and video artists Dana Schechter and Molly Schwartz examine the concept of The Commons as a means to achieve a society of justice and equality.

On the Internet, the “viral spiral” is a way ideas and innovations grow and be shared with ever-larger numbers of people. That spiral path could be the way the ideas of the commons can help shape a more just society. Learn more at On The Commons.org.

Laura Hanna
Laura Hanna is a filmmaker who, with Astra Taylor, produces short-form documentaries for The Nation. Their New York-based production company, Hidden Driver, specializes in feature-length and short-form films focusing on intellectual, cultural and political issues
A California native, she has worked in all stages of production, as an editor, producer, sound recordist, post-production sound editor, mixer and designer. She is currently directing the documentary feature Megapolis.

Gavin BrowningGavin Browning holds a masters degree in urban planning from Columbia University. He lives in New York City, where he is the Programming Coordinator of Studio-X.